NEW DELHI — India has formally launched its campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2028-29 term, positioning itself as a champion of maritime security, counterterrorism, and equitable global governance. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar unveiled the “SHANTI” framework—an acronym for Security, Humanitarian Assistance, Anti-Terrorism, Non-Proliferation, Trade, and Inclusive Governance—as the cornerstone of India’s policy agenda if elected. The announcement comes as New Delhi seeks to amplify its voice in an institution long dominated by Western powers and permanent members resistant to reform.
Speaking at a press briefing in New Delhi on Tuesday, Jaishankar framed India’s candidacy as a reflection of its “commitment to multilateralism and its track record as a net security provider.” He emphasized that India’s approach to the UNSC would prioritize “equity, transparency, and accountability,” with a particular focus on cracking down on terror financing and enhancing maritime domain awareness in the Indian Ocean region. The minister also revealed that India would push for stronger protections for seafarers, citing rising piracy threats and geopolitical tensions in critical shipping lanes.
The campaign launch follows Jaishankar’s meeting with UN Secretary-General António Guterres earlier this week, where the two discussed escalating conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine. While no formal readout was issued, diplomatic sources told The New Indian Express that India reiterated its stance on dialogue and diplomacy as the primary means to resolve geopolitical tensions, a position consistent with its non-aligned foreign policy. The meeting underscored India’s efforts to balance its strategic partnerships with the U.S. and Russia while maintaining credibility among Global South nations.
What Happened: The Campaign Launch and Key Priorities
India’s bid for the 2028-29 UNSC term was formally announced during a high-profile event attended by senior diplomats, foreign policy analysts, and representatives from the UN. Jaishankar’s “SHANTI” vision outlines six core priorities:
1. Security: Strengthening maritime security in the Indian Ocean, including counter-piracy operations and freedom of navigation.
2. Humanitarian Assistance: Advocating for timely and equitable disaster relief and conflict mediation.
3. Anti-Terrorism: Pushing for global action against terror financing, particularly targeting state-sponsored networks.
4. Non-Proliferation: Supporting nuclear disarmament while opposing double standards in global non-proliferation regimes.
5. Trade: Promoting fair trade practices and reducing barriers for developing nations.
6. Inclusive Governance: Championing UNSC reform to include permanent representation for Africa and greater voice for the Global South.
Jaishankar’s remarks also highlighted India’s historical role in UN peacekeeping, noting that the country has contributed over 200,000 troops to UN missions since 1948, more than any other nation. He argued that India’s experience in conflict resolution and post-war reconstruction makes it a “natural candidate” for the UNSC.
Why It Matters: India’s Bid in a Shifting Global Order
India’s campaign for the UNSC seat comes at a critical juncture for global governance. The Security Council, long criticized for its lack of representation, faces growing calls for reform, particularly from African and Latin American nations demanding permanent seats. India’s bid is seen as part of a broader push by emerging powers to challenge the dominance of the P5 (the U.S., UK, France, China, and Russia), which hold veto power over all substantive resolutions.
The “SHANTI” framework is particularly significant in light of recent geopolitical developments:
– Maritime Security: India’s emphasis on maritime security reflects its concerns over China’s expanding naval presence in the Indian Ocean, including the establishment of military bases in Djibouti and Gwadar (Pakistan). The Indian Ocean is a vital trade route, with over 80% of global oil shipments passing through its waters. India’s push for stronger maritime domain awareness aligns with its Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) doctrine, which seeks to position New Delhi as a net security provider in the Indo-Pacific.
– Counterterrorism: India’s focus on terror financing is a direct response to its long-standing grievances against Pakistan, which it accuses of harboring militant groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. While Jaishankar did not name Pakistan explicitly, his reference to “state-sponsored terrorism” was widely interpreted as a veiled criticism of Islamabad. India has repeatedly called for the UN to blacklist Pakistan-based terrorists, but China has blocked such efforts using its UNSC veto.
– UNSC Reform: India’s bid is part of its broader campaign for permanent UNSC membership, a goal it has pursued since the early 1990s. While New Delhi enjoys support from the U.S., UK, France, and Russia for its permanent seat aspirations, China has consistently opposed any expansion of the P5. India’s non-permanent seat campaign is seen as a stepping stone toward its long-term goal, allowing it to demonstrate its diplomatic influence and commitment to multilateralism.
Background and Context: India’s UNSC History and Regional Dynamics
India has served as a non-permanent member of the UNSC eight times since 1947, most recently in 2021-22. Its previous terms have been marked by efforts to highlight issues affecting the Global South, including decolonization, apartheid, and climate change. However, India’s 2021-22 term was overshadowed by its abstentions on key resolutions related to the Ukraine war, which drew criticism from Western nations while earning praise from Russia and non-aligned states.
The 2028-29 election will see India compete against other candidates from the Asia-Pacific group, which includes 53 member states. While India is widely expected to secure the necessary two-thirds majority in the UN General Assembly, regional rivalries could complicate its path. Pakistan, which has historically opposed India’s UNSC ambitions, may seek to rally support among Islamic nations, though its influence has waned in recent years. China, as a permanent member, could also exert pressure on smaller Asian nations to back alternative candidates.
A notable historical parallel is India’s 1975 UNSC election, which saw a bitter contest with Pakistan. At the time, Pakistan lobbied hard against India’s candidacy, accusing New Delhi of “hegemonic ambitions.” However, India ultimately secured the seat with overwhelming support, a victory that underscored its growing diplomatic clout during the Cold War era. Today, India’s geopolitical standing is far stronger, with strategic partnerships with the U.S., EU, and key Middle Eastern nations, but the competition remains fierce.
Competing Claims and Uncertainty: Challenges Ahead
While India’s campaign has garnered broad support, several challenges and uncertainties remain:
1. Regional Competition: The Asia-Pacific group has not yet finalized its candidate for the 2028-29 term. While India is the frontrunner, other nations, such as Indonesia or Vietnam, could emerge as contenders. Indonesia, in particular, has signaled interest in a UNSC seat and enjoys strong support from ASEAN nations. However, India’s diplomatic outreach in recent years, including its leadership of the G20 in 2023, has bolstered its case.
2. China’s Role: As a permanent UNSC member, China wields significant influence over the election process. While Beijing has not publicly opposed India’s bid, its past actions—such as blocking India’s attempts to list Pakistan-based terrorists as global terrorists—suggest it may not actively support New Delhi’s campaign. China’s own ambitions for greater influence in the Global South could lead it to subtly undermine India’s candidacy.
3. Global Polarization: The UNSC is increasingly divided along geopolitical lines, with the U.S. and its allies often clashing with Russia and China over issues like Ukraine and Taiwan. India’s non-aligned stance has allowed it to maintain relations with both blocs, but its ability to navigate these divisions will be tested if it secures a seat. For instance, India’s abstentions on Ukraine-related resolutions in 2022 drew criticism from Western nations, who argued that New Delhi was enabling Russian aggression.
4. UNSC Reform Deadlock: India’s long-term goal of securing a permanent UNSC seat remains elusive due to opposition from the P5 and lack of consensus among UN member states. While the U.S., UK, and France have expressed support for India’s permanent membership, China and Russia have resisted any expansion of the P5. Without a breakthrough on reform, India’s non-permanent seat may be seen as a consolation prize rather than a stepping stone to greater influence.
What to Watch Next: Key Milestones in India’s Campaign
1. Diplomatic Outreach: India is expected to launch an aggressive diplomatic campaign in the coming months, targeting key voting blocs in Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Jaishankar’s recent visits to Africa and Southeast Asia suggest that New Delhi is already laying the groundwork for its bid. India may also leverage its leadership of the G20 and its role in the BRICS grouping to rally support.
2. Asia-Pacific Group Dynamics: The Asia-Pacific group will hold internal consultations to decide on its candidate for the 2028-29 term. While India is the frontrunner, the group’s decision will depend on regional dynamics, including China’s influence and the preferences of smaller nations. A formal endorsement from the group would significantly boost India’s chances.
3. UN General Assembly Vote: The election for the 2028-29 UNSC seats will take place in 2027, with voting conducted in the UN General Assembly. India will need to secure a two-thirds majority (128 votes out of 193) to win the seat. While India is expected to cross this threshold, the margin of victory could signal its diplomatic strength or weakness.
4. Policy Priorities in Action: If elected, India’s ability to deliver on its “SHANTI” vision will be closely watched. Key areas to monitor include:
– Maritime Security: Will India push for a UNSC resolution on piracy in the Indian Ocean, and how will China respond?
– Counterterrorism: Can India secure a consensus on terror financing, or will China continue to block its efforts?
– UNSC Reform: Will India use its seat to revive discussions on Security Council reform, or will it focus on more immediate priorities?
5. Global Geopolitical Shifts: The outcome of the 2024 U.S. presidential election, the trajectory of the Ukraine war, and China’s actions in the South China Sea could all influence India’s UNSC campaign. A more isolationist U.S. administration, for instance, could reduce Western support for India’s bid, while escalating tensions between China and the West could push New Delhi closer to the U.S. and its allies.
Conclusion: A Test of India’s Diplomatic Influence
India’s campaign for the 2028-29 UNSC seat is more than just a bid for a temporary seat at the global high table—it is a test of its ability to shape the future of multilateralism. The “SHANTI” vision reflects India’s aspirations to be a voice for the Global South, but its success will depend on its ability to navigate regional rivalries, global polarization, and the entrenched interests of the P5.
While India’s candidacy is likely to succeed, the real challenge will come if it secures the seat. The UNSC is a forum where words often fail to translate into action, and India’s ability to deliver on its promises—whether on maritime security, counterterrorism, or UNSC reform—will determine its credibility as a global power. For now, New Delhi’s campaign signals its growing confidence in its diplomatic influence, but the road ahead is fraught with geopolitical pitfalls
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